Archive for the ‘Acarya Standard’ Category

Namaskar
Unfortunately, in certain circles, some are lax in practicing asanas – this is especially true of some of our acaryas. More specifically, we can say that there are three groups of wts in this regard:

1. There are some Wts who are extremely sincere and regular in doing yoga asanas. They do their asanas in all circumstances – when alone, while in camps and at DMS, when traveling, always. This is the small minority of workers.

2. Next there are some workers who do their asanas only when they are around others. That means they do yoga asanas only for show, i.e. to impress others. They want those around them to think they are very sincere in following Sixteen Points etc. But, when there is no one around, then these same workers skip their asanas etc. Such types of workers suffer from hypocrisy.

3. Then there are those Wts who never do yoga asanas – neither when they are alone, nor when they are with others. Always they skip. Not only that, if they see others – especially Wts – sincerely practicing asanas, then they will ridicule them and make jokes. They will say things like, “Oh, look, here is such great yogi”, “You are going to get moksa anyway, so why are you doing these practices”, “Look at the mahayogi – he is going to get moksa this very moment”, etc. Such workers who mock others in this way move around together in a group. Their chief intent is to deter others from doing the asanas so that they themselves are not looked upon unfavourably for not doing them. Such types of workers suffer from double hypocrisy.

Tragically, this is the state of affairs in our Wt cadre.

In comparison, around the globe some non-margiis, although they may be deficient in various arenas, are very keen on practicing yoga asanas nowadays. Their intent is to retain their youthfulness and beauty, and age in a graceful manner. They often pay for yoga classes. They may or may not do the asanas correctly, and they may or may not follow a sattvika (sentient) diet, but they are eager to gain the physical benefits of the practice.

Strikingly, even this much interest some of our workers do not have. They are not even interested in doing asanas for their own physical health – yet these same workers want to be good-looking & shining etc. That is why we see a growing number of wholetimer Didis and Dadas going to beauty salons for cosmetic treatments etc, unfortunately. This is the trade-off they have made. This is their short-cut appproach. They want the benefits of yoga without practicing, so they go to the beauty parlor. Certain workers fall in this category, shockingly.

All told the situation is quite sad. The only way to bring about the needed change is to inspire others to practice, as well as create the requisite circumstantial pressure.

Namaskar,
Jaipur DSL is notoriously infamous for harassing and beating the young kids in her children’s home. Didi has been in Jaipur running this children’s home for close to one decade. And you may be shocked to hear this but she mercilessly beats those kids on an ongoing basis. Didiji has no control over her rage.

Recently Didiji pinned down a small, 11 yr old girl on her back and Didi sat on her chest and punched her in the face – like a boxer punches (closed-fisted). Didi punched the girl again and again. Blood was strewn everywhere. Didi punched the child so hard in the face so forcefully that she actually knocked a few teeth loose, and one tooth completely fell out. Such was the rage and fury of Didiji’s attack on that poor girl.

Seeing this unfold in front of their eyes, all the kids became scared. As they live in a children’s home, some have parents but many do not. One child called their parents on the neighbour’s phone and said, “I am not going to stay here.” Hearing this, the parents left immediately to get their child.

When the parents reached to the children’s home, then Didi refused to hand over their child. Then the police got involved because Didi was not releasing the child.

Most people in the civilised world cannot think to inflict such torturous attack upon a poor, defenseless child. Indeed, even the worst cases of police brutality pale in comparison to what Didiji did. Only a psycho-path can do something like this to a small child. And that is what Didji is.

Tragically, this is not an isolated incident. Didiji pushed another child down the stairs – 5 steps – and then beat that child. This Didi can do anything. She is a veritable terror to the kids, and has a long and violent history running this children’s home.

Through it all, Centre keeps quiet. Centre feels impotent to do anything because Didiji gives them money and thus warms the pocket of her bosses. For this reason, Centre has not taken action against Didi. About this, more will soon be written.

Now, it is the duty of all margiis to raise their voice against this injustice. Keeping quiet is not the quality of a sadhaka / dharmika. Where there is injustice, we must speak out. Not doing that which should be done is pratyavaya – i.e. worse than doing a sinful deed.

Finally, I should close by adding that certainly not all Didis are doing like this. There are many very good Didis around the globe, such as Bikaner DSL who is very loving and nurturing – just the opposite of this psycho-path.

Note: This letter addressed to our Wts; they should not do like this. For family margiis, they have their own personal choice. But Wts do not; they must be strict and abide by their conduct rules.

Namaskar,
Some Wholetimers (WTs) are unfortunately coloring their hair to enhance their superficial beauty; one fine morning they will color their lips also. This is the tragic trend and way things are going. However, this is not the way out wholetime workers should conduct themselves. They should not become victims of materialism. Rather their outlook and actions should be radically different.

LIFE IS SHORT – I AM NOT COME HERE FOREVER

GRAY HAIR IS A HELPFUL REMINDER OF MY OWN MORTALITY

When the topic of having gray hair arises, they should think in this way:

“I am not worried about my gray hair; I am concerned about my entire existence. This world is temporary – those who have born are going to die. Everyone will die and one day I too will die – that day can come at any time. I have no control over this.”
“Although i am in good health, by Baba’s grace, even then this body is temporary – anytime I can die. That my hair is gray is a helpful reminder to me that this life is ephemeral – this body is very temporary. I may not see tomorrow’s sun rise. Yet I have many works to complete before I die. that is my main concern – not whether my hair is gray or not. Rather this gray hair helps me in my endeavor as it reminds me that I am not here permanently, forever.”

Those ignorant people who give so much importance to the external colours are preya + ashreyii (worshipers of preya).

With our wholetimer workers, there should not be any complex about having gray hair. They should not waste their valuable time worrying about this when they can instead vigorously involve themselves in dharmic work.

WHAT WILL BE NEXT? LIPS? BODY PIERCING? TATTOOS?

By seeing those wts colouring their hair, I become surprised and think, when will the day come when they colour their nails, lips, or other body parts. Or when will their pierce their nose, ears, or other parts beautify themselves; or when will they get a tattoo? These are the types of thoughts that arise by seeing our Wts succumb to the materialistic temptation of colouring their hair. Not only that, when will they get a face lift or starting using botox to “beautify” themselves.

UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF NEGATIVE MICROVITA

In future letters, we will post the names of those wts who are dyeing their hair – some of these Wts are male and some are female. Regardless of the gender, any Wt involved in this way are sadly under the influence of negative microvita:

(Note: Devayonis are microvita; they are not something great, rather degraded.)

“They prayed to Parama Puruśa for beauty instead of for Parama Puruśa Himself. Such people, after their demise, attain the status of kinnara devayonis.” (Microvita in a Nutshell)

“The third category of devayoni is called kinnara. People who have an extraordinary fascination for beauty become kinnaras after death. They have an immense weakness for fashionable clothes, expensive ornaments and so on for they believe that if they are well dressed they will be treated as gods.” (Ananda Marga Philosophy in a Nutshell – 6)

“Kinnara. “Bábá has given me everything, but I am not good-looking. I want to be very good-looking, so that people will say – No, no, no, it is very bad.” Such good persons, good souls (and they are good people, not ordinary people) after death also acquire this type of three-elemented body. They are called kinnara.” (Ananda Vacanamrtam – 3, Ghosts & Evil Spirits)

WHY THEY WOULD DO LIKE THIS

& THE TERRIBLE DANGER AT HAND

The basic motivation behind dyeing one’s hair etc is to highlight and show oneself in a manner based on superficial beauty. But one should not forget that the mind is one. If anyone is highlighting themselves then their entire existence is focused on their own petty I-feeling and not Parama Purusa. By that way their mind becomes smaller and smaller. That will lead them along the path of negative pratisaincara – i.e. the path of degeneration.

As one thinks so one becomes. If one indulges in their own petty-I feeling, their mind will become narrower and still more narrow. That is the practical science and that is what happens to those engrossed in their own superficial beauty.

Giving importance to one’s own self on the path of spirituality is very bad. That is why such type of activities that make the mind self-engrossed are antithetical for spiritual progress. No right-minded person – let alone one of our Wts – should destroy their future in this way.

DRAMATIC CHANGES GOING ON

In the past, prior to 1990, our wholetimers were ensconced in the ideals of sadhana, service, and sacrifice. Our Wt monks were glorified in this way – that was their beauty and charm. Unfortunately now some workers have turned to cosmetics and beauty parlors to shine themselves. This is the height of superficiality. This is a shocking state of degeneration. Such is the dominance and allurement of materialism that even our Wts have gotten involved in this way. Their dharmic role is to bring others onto the path of spirituality, but instead the opposite has occurred.

Certainly there are many strong and dharmic Wts in our acarya cadre, so it is sad and tragic that a few have fallen in this way. It lowers the standard dramatically.

If you are hearing this for the first time you may not believe this but if you investigate this matter you will easily discover that all that is written here is true and verily going on.

In India and in many nations, a few decades back, gray hair was looked upon as being very respectful. People were respected for their longevity and knowledge. But now the era has changed; everything has been turned upside-down. In so many parts, hair dying has become common – even a national trend due to the extreme rise of materialism. It seems that the samaj gurus have become legally blind; then how can they help others from falling in the ditch of materialism. It is our duty to save them and show the right path that superficial beauty is not everything – only Parama Purusa is everything.

OUR DHARMIC DUTY

It is our dharmic duty to save those treading the path of ut’a yana (path of hell). We should try to swiftly rescue them from their terrible plight. Otherwise, after certain amount of time, it is virtually impossible to bring them back onto the path of immortality (amrta yana). The time to act is now.

SUMMARY AND WT CONDUCT RULES

On this topic of Wt beauty competitions, there are many avenues we will discuss such as as visiting the beauty parlor, using cosmetics, applying artificial scent, and other superficial approaches that are contrary to WT life. And we will release the names of those involved as well.

Our workers must not go against their WT conduct rules. Unfortunately, they are wasting hard-earned money that margiis made and donated as our Wts and spending that in the beauty parlor.

“Perfumed oil should not be used.” (32 Rules for Avadhutas, pt #3)

“Any medicates soap but not cosmetic or perfumed soap should be used. (32 Rules for Avadhutas, pt #8)

“The use of things which are naturally perfumed are not prohibited, but artificially perfumed things should not be used.” (32 Rules for Avadhutas, pt #12)

BABA’S RELATED TEACHINGS

“There are many people who are very fond of praising themselves by telling everyone what wonderful things they have done, but, as mentioned in this sloka, kiirtana is not for one’s own self but for Hari. Even though people are taught to do kiirtana for Hari, they still make the mistake of praising themselves too much. Sometimes their self-praise is so intense that others are obliged to say, “Please stop praising yourself so much.” They forget that their self-applause is rather boring for others. Human beings should realize that no one likes to hear the self-praise of others.” (Ananda Vacanamrtam – 8, The Lord Should Always Be Praised)

“Habitual exhibitionism is one of the mental diseases of humanity. The root cause of this disease is the psychology of inflating one’s personality so that others are confounded, stupefied and overawed – they become speechless and gape with wonder at that inflated personality. Leave aside the person who has some merit, some capacity – even those without the least wealth, from whom you cannot expect a single penny even if you do seven hundred sit-ups and push-ups before them – even such people seek to exhibit themselves like fools or pandits. They never even care to know whether anyone has detected them or not, or whether others are actually laughing at them behind their backs: they remain totally obsessed with themselves. They even tend to forget that the Operative Principle, which is responsible for all actions, big or small, benevolent or malevolent, is absolutely dependent on the witness-ship of the Cognitive Principle. Those who have meagre intelligence may not be able to grasp this philosophical idea, but those who claim to have some intelligence, although they understand it, want to forget it. And behind this, the same psychology predominates – the psychology of exhibitionism, the psychology of self-display.
“There is a story for children about a certain king who had an iron safe where he kept his gold coins. These coins, because of long disuse, became mouldy. One day the king spread the gold coins in the sun to dry, and a frog picked up one of the smallest pieces. At this its belly puffed up and its throat swelled up, and it began to announce in its characteristic rasping voice….[Why shouldn’t I sing – I’m as rich as a king!] At this, everyone came and asked the frog, “Well, sir, what wealth do you actually have?” Then the frog spun that little coin around at least seven hundred times, saying, “Am I less than the king?” This is an example of the psychology of exhibitionism….”

“People with this mental defect lose their power of discrimination. First, they think that since they are so great, there is no need for them to learn anything from others. As a result of this, their further progress comes to a halt. Secondly, the arrogant attitude of this asmitá banishes from their minds the humble psychology of the learner. They lose interest in learning anything useful; so not only in the world of knowledge, but also in the world of practicality, they become misfits in life because of their mountainous accumulated ignorance….”

“It is not that arrogance of this sort simply obstructs their progress. The human mind, like the human body, is dynamic. No one has come to remain here; everyone is moving – for movement is a must. Now, the mind whose further progress is blocked will also have to move this way or that; so when one must move, but the path of progress is blocked, one is compelled to move along the path of degradation. Thus the arrogance born of this asmitá will lead people towards their downfall. This arrogance, which makes them want to display themselves, forgetting all other things, is termed ahaḿkára [vanity]. The predominant vrtti behind it is aham [ego]: “I am everything, there is nothing beyond and outside me.”” (Namah Shiváya Shántáya, Disc: 10)

“Jiivátmá is neither a male nor a female, nor a hermaphrodite. For the proper expression of one’s latent samskáras [reactive momenta] one gets reborn into the body of a woman or a man or sometimes a hermaphrodite. There is no question of high or low, superior or inferior, noble or ignoble because whatever might be the sex of the body, the jiivátmá is just the witnessing faculty of the mind it is attached to. It is unassailed by the sexual differences of the quinquelemental bodies. The unexpressed psychic reactions (samskáras) of the disembodied soul are guided by the Cosmic Mind and adjusted with a proper structure, at a proper time and a proper place, providing a congenial environment for the expression of the unrequited samskáras. Depending upon the nature of the samskáras there is either the predominance of the tendency to attract (samyojanii shakti) or the predominance of the tendency to be attracted (vibhájanii shakti). The nature of the force of attraction is to draw the object of enjoyment towards itself, and the nature of the force which is attracted is to move towards the object of enjoyment. When there is dominance of samyojanii shakti in one’s latent saḿskáras, the disembodied soul attains a female body for its outward expression, and conversely where there is a dominance of vibhájanii shakti, it attains a male body. Where there is an approximate balance between the two, the disembodied soul attains the body of a hermaphrodite. Of course, even in the hermaphrodite the balance between saḿyojanii and vibhájanii shaktis is not perfect; there is a slight tilt in favour of one or the other. That’s why some hermaphrodites are more inclined towards masculinity, and some, femininity.” (Ananda Marga Ideology & Way of Life – 7, Form and Formless)
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Namaskar,
Before writing the news first I wish to make it clear why I am writing this letter.

Essentially, these types of issues can easily be resolved:

(1) In a healthy organisational climate, proper watch and discipline would minimise, nay eliminate, such problems. After all, we see this regularly in the general society. When any institution or organisation comes in crisis, then if that organisation is working properly they will control the situation from within. This happens all the time. Unfortunately, nowadays our AMPS organisation is dysfunctional and thus cannot fix the problem.

(2) In the past, prior to 1990, all-knowing Sadguru Baba kept a strict eye. Everyone felt His gaze and by this way, Wts were kept in line. Now that pressure is tangibly absent in the organisation.

When these two avenues are not available, then the only route left is public shame. As a disciple of Baba, that is the only pathway that remains. Hence this letter is written only with the motive of welfare: To restore the glorious status of AMPS and bring an end to one monk’s extreme degradation so he can best progress. If the monk is disciplined and this problem gets corrected, then others will learn and be forced to control themselves.

For this reason this letter has been written and shared.

As you may know, Ac Citsvarupananda Avt has been carrying out an illicit relation with DSL Agra – it is in full-swing, unfortunately. Indeed this is most troubling news that Dada Citsvarupanandji is infatuated with DSL Agra. But at the same time this is not the first such incident surrounding Dadaji.

Here I wish to describe how their relation is going on.

SCIENCE: HOW LUST OVERPOWERS

Generally speaking, it is common that when relation is in its early stages, the two people involved feel shy to express or show their feelings in public. They do not want others to know.

But when the degree of infatuation is above certain point then such a person loses his senses. Then they cannot differentiate between what is socially acceptable or not, they cannot think what to do or not. This happens whenever one’s vrttis become overpowered, either by anger, despair or infatuation with the opposite sex. Such is the case with Dada Citsvarupanandji nowadays.

When he phones DSL Didi, then he talks in an overt and lewd manner and forgets that others hear what he is saying. Dadaji speaks in the open with others around. Actually, his well-wishers often try and suggest to him to be more prudent in his dealings, but immediately Dada Citsvarupanandji justifies his stance and quarrels with them.

Of course this is not just about prudence – Dadaji must never do such types of things, what to speak of doing them openly. Just like one must never steal, let alone steal in front of the police. So the advice those well-wishers offer is not exact, but even then Dadaji does not listen.

Because then Dada Citsvarupanandji goes over and stays together with DSL Didi. Again others warn him about what he is doing, but Dada Citsvarupanandji says, “I can talk with anyone I wish, I am GS Dada.” So he thinks that because he has a high post he can behave in this degrading manner. It is sad and nature will not spare him.

SHE IS AGE OF HIS GREAT GRAND-DAUGHTER

One thing that must be noted here is that DSL Didi is the age of what his great-grand daughter would be. That’s to say, if Dada Citsvarupananda had a great-grand daughter then that great-grand daughter would be the age of DSL Didi. Such is the age difference. It is a most unfortunate situation.

All along Dadaji is very much infatuated. He goes around and in the name of other projects collects money from margiis in various places and then siphons that money to his favoured DSL Didi – to please her. This is the well-known fact. Dadaji is so engrossed and infatuated that other concerned workers have been unable to intervene and stop him. Dada Citsvarupanandji does not listen to anyone. He is utterly deaf to the voice of reason. Just he is overrun by his vrttis.

If Citsvarupananda Dada wants to lead such a life then he should go away from AMPS after tossing aside his dress. If he would do like this then there would be no need to to write such a letter.

The way things are now – this really is a big deal. No Wt should behave in this manner. Not only that, what he is doing is not even tolerated amongst family people or office personnel. No respectable family would allow a great-grandfather to indulge in such behaviours. And no company would allow their CEO to move around with opposite-sex subordinates. Commonly we read how high-ranking CEO’s are dismissed for such reasons.

Thus what is not allowed in family life and what is not allowed in the corporate world is being given scope to flourish in our AMPS – unfortunately. From top to bottom, the whole situation is quite tragic and must be put to rest – i.e. resolved.

THIS DISEASE IS SPREADING

Now margiis should come forward and help out. Please write and call Dadaji and concerned people about this. Dadaji’s dealing is quite harmful on many levels and must be stopped. Indeed, some Wts following in his footsteps have also become infatuated and collected spouses. But this is not the way for our workers.

Certainly the vast numbers of Wts are sincere, dedicated workers. So it just a few who run a muck, and for their welfare and that of the organisation, they should be stopped.

About all this I will try to write more later. Please also see these other letters about Dada Citsvarupanandji.

O’ SADHU – HAVE RESTRAINT OVER ALL ORGANS

“Cakśuńá Saḿvaro Sádhu” O spiritual aspirant! O Bhikśu! O monk! O devotee! You should have proper control over your eyes; whatever will have bad effect on your mind, you must not see it. “Sádhu Sotena saḿvaro”. Whatever will have bad effect on your mind, O good man, you must not hear it. “Ghánena Saḿvaro Sádhu.” You should have control over your nose, “Sádhu Jibháya Saḿvaro.” You should have control over your taste. “Káyena Saḿvaro Sádhu.” You should have control over your body. “Sádhu Vácáya Saḿvaro.” You should have control over your language also; and “Savvatha Saḿvaro Bhikśu.” If you want emancipation, if you want liberation from worldly fetters, you must have all-round restraint. (Ananda Vacanamrtam – 14)

“Each worker will separately maintain the clear account of receipt and expenditure of his personal allowance and organizational money.” (Wt Conduct: Six Additional Rules, pt# 1b)

“Each amount of collection should be deposited properly and drawn after submitting requisition.” (Wt Conduct: Six Additional Rules, pt# 1d)

Namaskar,
In Him,
Turiiya

Note 1: LINKS TO OTHER LETTERS ABOUT CITSVARUPANANDA’S MISBHEAVIOUR

Dada Citsvarupananda’s problem is not new, but rather a long, deep-seeded issue. It has gone on far too long. No family or company would tolerate such things.

(A) The following report appeared in this letter of Sep 2009

NEWS: “MAJANU DADA(S)” TWO DADAS ALWAYS HANGING AROUND DIDIS

It is well known that Citsvarupa’nanda and Madhuvrata’nanda are always involved in and busy with the Didi’s department. They have no time for dadas. They try to handle didis dept. Dadas comment that Citsvarupananda is CWWS of WWD and Madhuvratananda is SWWS of Didi dept. B/c of the interference of these dadas, good didis feel uneasy. Indeed it is well known that Citsvarupa’nanda’s character is not good. He is a “Majanu” brand worker. For those who are not aware, in 1976 there was a blockbuster movie in Hindi called Laila Majanu. And in the movie the lead male was infatuated and glued to the female star, Laila. Majanu’s emotional and sensual attachment was so strong. Thus nowadays when any male gets infatuated with females people label that male as “Majnu”. That is the proverb these days in Hindi. Because of Citsvarupananda’s poor dealing and deep attachment for females, he is just branded as Majanu by the mass of Dadas. This is their inside joke. It is unfortunate that such has become the fate and reputation of Citsvarupananda. Let us all hope that he can turn his life around and become a respectable cadre of Ananda Marga. That will be the best outcome. We should all help maximally in this regard. (posted 11.1.2009)

This entire email is composed of 2 parts:
(1) Posting: Re: What Do You Think About Tips, Bribes, Gifts & Seva;
(2) Reader Comment: Re: Depicting Baba In A Very Negative Way – Unfortunately;

Each of the above portions is separated by asterisks (*******)

== RE: WHAT DO YOU THINK ABOUT TIPS, BRIBES, GIFTS & SEVA ==

~ Part 2 ~

Note: This is the second letter in this series; a link to the first letter has been appended below for your easy reference.

Namaskar,

“Baba does not want extra money given to anyone performing a job as this leads to the degeneration of the individual and the disintegration of society. In that sense, a tip and a bribe are essentially the same exact thing. The one receiving the tip becomes personally degenerated because all day long he is thinking about money instead of doing his job; and the problem in collective life is that tips lead to partiality. Those who give big tips receive preferential treatment, while those who do not have money to give a grand tip are forgotten and labeled as “cheap” or “penniless” or “worthless”.

That is why the common acronym for tips is: To Insure Prompt Service.

Those who tip big get treated with high respect and their every need and wish is satisfied. Those common people who do not have the funds to tip are overlooked and neglected…”

“Just think how terrible it will be if the police or fire department do not respond to your emergency call since they do not consider you to be a big tipper. That is the reality which even exists today in many countries. Or imagine if you went to the doctor and they refused to see you because you were not a big tipper. When we think of the matter in this light, does it not create an unsettling feeling in the mind.

Viewing the situation in this manner, it is very evident that tips will bring injustice and stagnancy in the society, just like bribes. Preferential treatment becomes the rule of the day, not true human feeling.”

This analysis is very good. Thanks for raising this important topic. Here I would like to share a story by one of my close friends who was there that time.

STORY OF GOENKA FAMILY TIPPING / BRIBING IN ANANDA NAGAR

COMMON MARGIIS COULD NOT GET FOOD

All along it has been my regular habit to give “healthy tips” to labourers and related personnel.

But I cannot forget one incident that took place in Ananda Nagar in the early 1990’s. Those days the Goenka and Agrawal families used to stay in the new Ananda Marga Institute of Technology (AMIT) building during DMS.

Accordingly, Dada Kalyaneshvaranandji used to arrange a special cook to prepare food for those staying at AMIT (Ananda Marga Institute of Technology).

For three days, during DMS, the cook was putting forth his entire effort to please the Goenka family. The cook would not listen to or give attention to anyone else, i.e. those not giving large amounts of money for those three days. This created problems for many during the DMS time. And some simple people were wondering why the cook would not even look their way. Then the answer became known to all.

The reason the cook would not help anyone else was that he was receiving Rs 400 as “Tip” from Goenka Dada at the end of DMS. Therefore, the cook was doing nothing else except trying to please the Goenka family. Yet, the cook had been employed to cook for all, as everyone staying at AMIT had paid a fee to the in-charge for meals etc. But the cook was only attending to Goenka’s family since they were giving the “tip”.

So, due to a “tip”, the cook did not attend to his allotted duty in an impartial manner. Rather he was giving exclusive attention and preference to those giving big tips and he would do nil (nothing) for those giving smaller tips or not giving at all. Because of the big tip, the cook was partial to one rich man’s family and he (the cook) blatantly disregarded others. This striking example clearly shows the negative effect that tips have on society – even our Ananda Marga society.

At that time I started thinking that a tip is like a bribe to get a special favour.

Since reading your letter I have decided to permanently stop this ill-conceived convention of tipping others. It is not at all good, rather harmful. Baba does not like it and it is not good for society.

I hope that every genuine Ananda Margii will follow Baba on this point. We should refrain from giving tips, and, side by side, devote energy and time to fighting for higher wages and better working conditions for those employees working for tips / low wages.

TIP AND BRIBE ARE THE SAME

As clearly outlined in the first letter of this series and as depicted in the above story by a close friend, both tips and bribes are bad. Essentially tips and bribes are one and the same. Both have a deleterious effect on society where the wealthy get goods and services and the common person is left out. That is the basic outcome.

Now let’s examine some related scenarios.

NEIGHBORHOOD FAVOURS

Suppose your neighbor is going away for a few days and they need someone to watch over their property, feed their animals, or water their plants etc. You know they need help and you come forward and offer to help, without wanting or expecting anything in return. That is the right spirit. That is a neighborly favor.

All neighborly favours should be done with a service motive – purely to help them. It is unilateral. You help and desire nothing in return.

The moment a neighborly favour is don in the hope of receiving in return or with the hope that when you go away then they will watch over your house. Then, according to the tenets of Ananda Marga, it is no longer a neighborly favour but rather a form of business.

Whenever something is given to someone in exchange for work performed or anything else, then that is a transaction or a form of business. There is a giving and a receiving involved; it is not unilateral.

“Business is always mutual. If you want one kilo of sugar you will have to pay for it: you give something and they will give you sugar. So business is mutual, not unilateral.” (Subhasita Samgraha – 21, Jaeva Dharma and Bhágavata Dharma)

Neighborly favours must always be done in the spirit of service – i.e. offering help. The moment something is desired, received, or given in return, then it is a business relation, not a neighborly favour.

GIFTS

What is a gift?

A gift is when someone gives freely out of the goodness of their own heart. There is no mutual exchange; there is no consideration of post or privilege. The giving is based purely on one person’s heart-felt feeling for another. That type of feeling is a gift.

Here Baba explains more about it. Baba says that if with the sweetness of their heart someone offers you something, then we should gladly accept it.

“If a person wants to feed you out of genuine intimacy, you should take that food happily, even if it is just grains and vegetables.” (Caryacarya – 2, Society, Pt #37)

Here the main point is that the person is giving purely out of affection without any ulterior agenda or motive in mind. Actually to truly know if you are giving someone a gift or not, tremendous honesty is needed. One has to look at one’s own motives and intentions very carefully.

One has to ask, “Why am I doing this?”. One must be cent-per-cent sure that there is no underlying motive to gain an advantage in any way, neither professionally, nor personally, nor socially, nor economically. Once there is an iota of feeling in the mind that a gift is given for such purposes, then that is no longer a gift. It is a tip or a bribe – or at the very least a business deal. So one must be very strict and honest about their intention.

Generally speaking, one gives gifts to friends and family members – not to anyone else. Gifts are given only to those with whom you have a loving relation.

Note: Nowadays, in certain countries, various politicians receive “gifts” via special interest groups. These special interest groups represent professionals, business leaders, and corporations such as drug companies, doctors, oil companies etc. So “gifts” are given to encourage politicians to attend to the agenda of the various special interest groups. This happens in democracies where capitalism is in vogue, as well as in totalitarian regimes etc. In all such cases the term “gift” is a euphemism. The reality is that a bribe is being given as the donor expects something in return. And if that donor or corporate entity does not get special privileges, then they will never give that “gift” again. That is why we can say that all such political gifts are bribes.

SEVA
Having reviewed the points of (a) bribe, (b) tip, (c) neighborly interactions, and (d) gifts, we now reach the point of seva or service.

What is service or seva?

With respect to this current posting, when someone gives something to someone in need, without wanting anything in return, then that is service.

For instance, suppose you see someone on the roadside suffering from malnutrition and you give them food to eat – and you do not want any payment or prestige in return – then that is seva.

“Sevá [service] is always unilateral; you give something in sevá but take nothing in return. This is sevá.” (Subhasita Samgraha – 21, Jaeva Dharma and Bhágavata Dharma)

Seva is a big part of our Ananda Marga way of life.

The noted difference between seva and a gift is that seva is performed for those are in need of help – one may or may not know the individual personally; in contrast, a gift is given to a close relation, whether they be a friend or family member, who is not in need of any help at the time.

MORE EXAMPLES OF HOW TIPS NEGATIVELY AFFECT SOCIETY

Here below Baba points out further examples of how tips lead to the degradation of society where the common people are denied basic goods and services.

HOW TIPS RUIN HOSPITALS AND MEDICAL CARE

(A) In this following example, Baba reveals how even hospitals where patient care is supposed to be top priority are riddled with problems surrounding tips, bribes, and preferential treatment, or even worse – no treatment at all.

“On the one hand there are good doctors sincerely serving poor patients on their own initiative, and on the other hand we may observe immature young doctors proudly boasting to each other about their career prospects. Regrettable though these things may be, I do not feel that there is any reason to lose hope.”
“Countless complaints can be made against doctors and the medical profession. Although it would take a lot of space to list them all, let me briefly mention a few: patients have to settle for adulterated medicines unless they bribe the pharmacist; sweepers, orderlies and nurses do not take proper care of a patient’s needs unless they are tipped; a patient writhing in pain may be rebuked instead of being given medicine; if one does not call the doctor at least once for a personal consultation so that that doctor can earn some extra money, one may be unable to secure a bed on one’s next visit to the hospital; a medicine that is supposedly out of stock in the hospital can be illegally purchased in a nearby shop at an exorbitant price; without bribing the doctor a sick patient will not be admitted to the hospital; during the compulsory medical examination for a new job, all the medical staff put out their hand for a bribe; the doctor in collusion with the optician fails many people in their eye tests so that they will have to buy glasses; hospital patients are served food which is cheaper and of poorer quality than what they are entitled to; milk and fruits reserved for patients are consumed by the hospital staff; spurious drugs and injections are administered to patients. Such grievances are endless. Some are extremely serious, involving accusations of such irresponsibility that it is difficult to believe that people actually have these experiences.” (Human Society – 1, Various Occupations)

Thus in all such medical institutions, there must not be any scope for tipping – zero. And not just in hospitals, but but the same should be the case for dharmasalas (hostels), and other organisations. Tips merely give way to employees and workers, even doctors, failing to do their jobs. Tips also invite problems for the common members of society who cannot get goods and services due to not being able to give a large enough tip.

(B) Here below Baba points out the awful conditions in those countries where the educated stratum of society gives way to bribes and tips, and accept gifts in exchange for professional favours.

“One may ask, “Why does the public not do something to rectify the situation?” Some maintain that these problems only occur in underdeveloped countries and that the people there tolerate evil because they are unaware of their rights. But is this correct? In underdeveloped countries there are educated people who staunchly support the different political parties and who can provide the people with leadership. Although they cannot inspire the whole society, they are certainly able to solve some of the problems. So why do they not do so? The reason is perfectly simple. A large section of the upper stratum of society is involved in corrupt practices. That is why uneducated people do not have the courage to raise their voices in protest, prevent immorality and take corrective measures against the corrupt elements active in every sphere of society.”
“A large number of clerks, teachers, engineers, government officials and business people who comprise the so-called educated section of society indulge in immorality and corruption in their respective professions. Their weak minds indirectly criticize injustice but cannot directly confront it. Thieves can criticize other thieves in a society of thieves, but they cannot offer suggestions in a society of honest people because their lips will quiver and their hearts will palpitate; the condition of corrupt educated people in the upper stratum of society in underdeveloped countries is similar. The Second World War has further complicated the situation.”
“The characters of such people have to be transformed and they will have to become honest, otherwise none of the evils in society will be eliminated, none of the problems will be solved.”
“So it is madness to hope that the efforts of the government alone will eliminate the problems in the medical profession, as if by magic.” (Human Society – 1, Various Occupations)

“WHY NOT EARN A HUNDRED THOUSAND RUPEES

BY PAYING A BRIBE OF A THOUSAND RUPEES!”

(C) In this following section Baba points out that the public not the government is at fault in such circumstances.

“Usually the public blames the government for such lapses, but in my opinion, if anyone is to blame, it is the public itself. The government is not an individual who accepts bribes or encourages immorality. The government does not support the distribution of spurious drugs. If the distribution of spurious drugs ever does get sanctioned by the government, it is due to the mistakes of immoral officials. They surrender their humanity to the rich out of greed for money. Dishonest business people are aware of their own guilt and are constantly troubled by it, but they receive encouragement from greedy and mentally-weak police and anti-corruption officials. Why not earn a hundred thousand rupees by paying a bribe of a thousand rupees! Most business people wait for the right opportunity with this type of outlook. For these reasons I do not blame the government for such immorality. Now, let us return to our topic. The key to solving the medical problem is in the hands of the public. This is the actual truth of the matter.” (Human Society – 1, Various Occupations)

SUMMARY

As we know, Baba’s teachings are practical and meant to be applied in daily life. Theoretical understanding of His guidelines alone is not enough. On the points of tips, bribes, neighborly favours, gifts, and service, we should be cent-per-cent strict. Then we can be a proper example for society.

The only exception to the above was well outlined in the first letter:

“In certain countries one cannot get the basic necessities of life (such as electricity, water, heat etc) without bribing local officials and administrators. Or if your house is robbed, the police will not do anything unless you offer a bribe – then they will start their investigation, otherwise not. In such situations – due to pressure of circumstances – one will have to pay a bribe. At the same time it is imperative to take a strong stand.”

“If someone through pressure of circumstances forces you to offer a bribe, do not forgive that person till he/she is reformed.” (Caryacarya – 2, Society, Point #24c)

CLOSING MESSAGE

Here we conclude this letter with these words from Sadguru Baba.

“To turn people into real human beings is the burning issue today, the greatest challenge. There are very few people who can take the lead in this undertaking, this sacred endeavour. Today tormented souls look to the purodhás [spiritual vanguard] of society with great expectations.”
“Politicians cannot provide what is needed. During the last six thousand years of human history, they have failed at every step. Hence, it would be wise for them to resist the temptation to try and take the lead in any sphere of society.” (Human Society – 1, Various Occupations)

Baba has just entered onto a train with Anant Prasad Thakur and the following scene takes place:

“Baba [was] sitting across from a group of [non-margii] teenagers, one boy and three girls. Baba asked the boy in a stern voice who the girls were. It was a tone I [Anant] was quite familiar with. The boy replied that they were members of his family. Suddenly Baba started rebuking him. “You bastard, you liar.” The boy was shocked. Baba started telling who the girls were and where they were from. The moment he began exposing the unsavory relations between the four of them, the teenagers fled the compartment. The rest of the passengers were astonished to see this.” (JY, p. 211)

Such is one of the many false and misrepresentations of Baba’s personality in this book.

SUCH A STORY IS ILLOGICAL & UNTHINKABLE

Firstly, nobody can say that Baba ever behaved in this manner and use such language with margiis, let alone non-margiis, or anyone at all – in public view on a train or anywhere. Baba would never scold and abuse non-margiis in this way, especially not youths. Indeed, Baba would generally overlook the conduct of margii teenagers, let alone non-margii teenagers. So this above episode and outlandish encounter is completely outrageous. Baba would never behave in such a manner, yet that is how He is depicted in this book – throughout the entire publication. This is very unfortunate.

Top of all, it is unthinkable that Baba would ever use the term or call anyone a bastard. That is way off base. (end old quote)

It is a great job exposing such a book with many (this story being just one) falsehoods or mis-representations of our Baba.

For me, I know He could not say such a thing from the thousands of Baba stories I have heard for more than 35 years. I have heard stories from margiis and acaryas that represented many different sectors and cultures. I traveled with many dadas from India and I never, ever heard anything near to this horrible depiction of Baba.

My actions and thought have not been 100% pure prior to and even while practicing Ananda Marga Tantra throughout the years. When I received Dharma Samiiksa, Baba scolded me in front of a small number of Indian margiis (maybe 6) and He never used foul language. He raised His voice and told me to follow 16 points.

During PC, Baba went over the negative things I had done throughout my life and was very sweet and gentle towards me when I expressed remorse and promised to be an ideal son of Baba. He actually talked about me and my promises in the room as if there were someone or some other beings who were there listening; I still wonder about that part.

During various reporting sessions with Him, He never called me names or publically humiliated me. Never. I was still not following 16 points 100%.

There are even more private moments with Him that I will not write about at this time, but I will emphatically state He was always thoughtful and caring with me. He would only say positive things about me to other acaryas. That is the Baba I know.

He never, ever verbally abused me in anyway. He used kind, thoughtful, sweet, and encouraging words for me to forget the past and start anew. That is the Baba I have come to know, and not this garbage I am reading in Devashish’s book.

I hope others come public and express their personal observations of Him to debunk the untruthful stories before they get out of hand.

== WHAT SENIOR ACARYA DIARY SAYS ==
Namaskar,
“Baba’s special teachings about ajagarii and madhukarii from Senior Acarya Diary encapsulate the whole entire spirit of being a real sannyasii in our Marga – and for years and years this was prevalent in our WT cadre, but unfortunately in the present era, since 1990, this essence is waning drastically.”

Such were the words of one of our senior avadhutas at a recent Ananda Marga function.

Thereafter, Dadaji went on to tell us all about Baba’s special teaching of ajagarii and madhukarii vrttis from Senior Acarya Diary. Certainly, Dada did not read from the Diary itself, so what is discussed below is a summary of that day’s discussion.

The overall message was that the spirit of renunciation is waning in our Ananda Marga. That does not mean that our entire wt cadre is suffering from this epidemic, because there are countless dedicated workers in Ananda Marga. Nonetheless, it is a trend that is on the rise.

So let us again investigate the ideals and practice of madhukarii and ajagarii vrttis. These qualities will bring balance into our organization, plus Baba furthermore guides us that madhukarii and ajagarii vrttis are the key ingredients of real avadhuta life.

SPIRIT OF MADHUKARII & AJAGARII VRTTIS

The overall idea here is that renunciation, dedication, and sacrifice are the cornerstones of our Ananda Marga way of life. Our saffron flag stands for these ideals – as should our sannyasii order. That is Baba’s design & teaching of madhukarii and ajagarii vrttis from Senior Acarya Diary.

In review, madhukar is that black bee which encircles the flowers and only takes that food which it needs at that very moment – nothing more. That madhukar does not gather and hoard bucketfuls of pollen to eat later.

A step up is the ajagar, or python, which does not even move to get its food; it merely eats what comes across its path. So not only does it not gather extra, but that ajagar does not even spend time hunting for food.

That is why in the aparigraha section of the Senior Acarya Diary, Baba specifically states that the madhukar and ajagar represent the only two ways for our WTs to exist in this world. (For more about this refer to Note 2 appended below.)

That means that in their personal lives, our Dadas and Didis are to adjust with the minimum necessities of life – and not get caught up in materialistic pursuits like hoarding money etc. Instead Wts are to use their precious time & energy serving and helping others in all realms, including spiritual elevation. That is the spirit of madhukarii and ajagarii vrttis.

At the same time, in their social service endeavours, workers can and should collect money for those projects. In that arena of life – for the service of others – they may seek out and gather donations and build up organisational bank accounts to sustain those projects. The account should be submitted to and overseen by a committee. Then there will be trust and commitment from all involved. In their personal life Wts must desist from doing keeping such accounts. Then they will be in accordance with the teachings of madhukarii and ajagarii vrttis.

Per Baba’s direction in Senior Acarya Diary, that is the only ideal way to live as a WT.

PRESENT DAY STANDARD OF WTS AND GROWTH OF THE MARGA

But tragically a few of our Wts have lost this spirit and are running after transitory allurements. With great idealism, they entered into our Wt cadre but at some point got caught up in the mundane race for material possessions like money, land, property, as well as post and power.

Lost in the wake of that spiritual vacuum, all kinds of negative habits, tendencies, and diseases crop up, and the spirit of renunciation fades. Then those particular workers cannot inspire anyone onto the spiritual path. Thus our numbers in Ananda Marga fail to increase. Whenever any worker loses their spirit of renunciation, then true pracara work cannot be done.

ALL SHOULD EMBRACE THE SPIRIT OF RENUNCIATION

Only through this pathway of renunciation – madhukra and ajagar – can our Ananda Marga sannyasii order really be something great: An order that represents dedication. That is Guru’s teaching.

In Ananda Vacanamrtam (Hindi) part 26 chapter 11 titled “Dhvaj sanket…”, Baba has given one special formula related with this very topic.

The whole idea of this teaching is that only through dedication and renunciation in the individual sphere can society prosper. For example, if anyone collects bundles of money in their own bank account, that impedes on the welfare of others. This will not bring any relief to the common people, rather it will hinder their ability to grow.

So those with money should not indulge in extravagant luxuries that are beyond the means of ordinary citizens. Until each and every person in the society can afford such amenities, then good people should not use such luxuries. But when those items become accessible and affordable to all, then in good faith it is alright for sadhakas to have those items.

Thus conscientious people use their wealth to raise the living standard of all. If one truly adopts such ideals of renunciation then they can bring smiles and happiness to countless people. So the spirit of sacrifice in one’s own personal life is truly something great and honourable. That is Baba’s guideline from Ananda Vacanamrtam.

BABA’S DIVINE EXAMPLE

And in His own personal life Baba was exemplary in this very approach. For years and years He traveled by railway, bus, or by foot since that was the common standard. And not only that, but the monetary wealth He earned through His railway job He distributed to the various wholetimers etc.

Not only that, before 1970 while He was still working in Jamalpur, Baba traveled to Ranchi and while there saw a newspaper article about a school headmaster’s request for money to fix the leaky roof in his school. The roof was leaking in the students’ classroom and the headmaster requested money for repairs. That very evening Baba went to the school and donated Rs1000 of His own personal money. Today that is roughly equivalent to Rs20,000 or more.

So in all the ways, Baba’s personal way of living stands as the embodiment of renunciation. We should understand and follow Guru’s teaching and adopt the path of renunciation in our individual lives, especially our wts.

A VERY NOBLE ENDEAVOUR

So none should think that ajagarii and madhkarii vrttis are some type of punishment to those wearing saffron. Rather adhering to this ideal code of aparigraha is something quite noble – it allows one to fulfill their mission and command respect in the real sense of the term.

“The dedicated monks and nuns of Ananda Marga have accepted their life of renunciation…to further the cause of human welfare; and through their service, they seek to lead human beings along the path of
righteousness to the abode of Supreme Bliss.” (A Few Problems Solved – 3)

WAY THINGS ARE NOW IN OUR MARGA

Unfortunately now in our Marga, things are developing in an entirely different way. Unfortunately, a more capitalistic mentality has seeped into our sannyasii order as some of our wts have just taken to collecting money, automobiles, big buildings, and registering these things in their own name. Yet all this goes 100% against Baba’s guideline of ajagarii and madhukarii vrttis from Senior Acarya Diary.

The basic formula is that the mind is one; so if one is rushing after money then that same mind does not have inspiration to run after Parama Purusa. Human mind is one, not many.

When the current leaders of AMPS pursue material gain, then there is a ripple effect. Many field workers are idealistic, but when top Dadas shirk their sannyasii vows then that adversely affects others.

In addition, top Dadas force lower posted workers to pay dues. That means they have to pay taxes to higher dadas otherwise they are harassed, threatened, punished, and abused.

Instead of getting respect on points of sadhuhood, restraint, sadhana, helping others, and sacrifice, the culture of our Wts has shifted over to a materialistic or capitalist way of living where prestige is given according to one’s monetary status and post etc.

Certain wealthy Dadas are using their money to garner a lot of respect from some margiis – what to say about non-margiis. However, the real determining factor of a sannyasii is conduct. That is the main measuring rod for determining one’s calibre.

“Those who have the responsibility to show the path to others should be of superlative character with the most refined conduct. They and their followers must move constantly towards all-round development and shreya [ultimate spiritual attainment]. Persons who teach such well-regulated behaviour to others by their own conduct are called ácáryas.” (Ananda Vacanamrtam – 31, Conduct of an Acarya)

Baba’s guideline for being an ideal Wt / acarya is quite clear. Sadly, all those many Wts who are properly leading a life of renunciation by adhering to the codes of madhukar and ajagar are victimised by top Dadas.

At present, the power structure in AMPS is entirely upside-down. Those central Wts with big pockets have all the power, whereas those service-minded wholetimers are looked upon as a liability and pushed aside.

Unfortunately, this is what is practically happening. If one can generate revenue by any means – just or unjust – and give that money to Centre then they get a high post and lots of prestige; and, if one firmly adheres to 16 Points and their vow of renunciation then they are looked upon as being outdated and expendable, and are written off as a liability and a beggar, unfortunately.

WT’S HAVE RENUNCIATION & NOTHING ELSE

This corporate approach where money is king is not the way things are supposed to be in our Ananda Marga sannyasii order. Baba has designed it completely differently – based on the ideals of the madhukar and ajagar. Where renunciation, not individual ownership, is everything.

For example, in the true Ananda Marga system, if a wt has been working in a particular location for a few years, then when a transfer order is given that very WT will automatically hand over all monies, equipment, funds, and property to the incoming worker. And the Wt who got transferred is to leave that area only with his dress and laungota in hand – & nothing else, except possibly a bus ticket to his new posting.

Now, however, all that has changed: When transferred those Wts sell the property, shift the money to their own black account, clean out all other financial resources, and hand over nil (nothing) to the newly posted worker.

According to our ideal, the only thing that a wt truly “owns” in this material world is their vow of renunciation. Beyond that they have nothing. And that is Baba’s divine system of madhukar and ajagar from Senior Acarya Diary. And that is what makes a sannyasii truly great – then they can really serve others and do great things in this world.

MORE ABOUT THE WAY THINGS ARE NOW IN OUR MARGA

Tragically, in today’s Ananda Marga sannyasii culture, selflessness is not the value cherished by top Dadas.

Now when a posting order comes, most often the Wt who got transferred departs with all the money from the bank account, or that Dada might sell the property and keep the profit, or he might send a cash donation to Centre in order to remain at his post. Or so many things might happen, including sending the monetary wealth and possessions of that jagrti to their laokik family.

Due to a lack of sadhana and straying from the path of madhukarii and ajagarii vrttis, some in our WT system have veered off course, where money – not renunciation – is everything.

This severely hinders the ability of workers to serve humanity.

For instance: A Wt is living on an MU with no house and is begging food from villagers as he tries to start various service projects. But then when a senior Dada from Centre arrives with a special, luxury car then the common people think all workers must have a lot of money. They think, “Why is this other Wt begging from me.” When there is a huge incongruity between top Wts and the common people, then there will be feelings of difference. Then our AMPS is unable to serve the local populace.

NOT THE FAULT OF NEW WTS

Some may think that since this problem of money-hoarding within our WT cadre began after 1990 then it is the fault of the new wts. But we cannot blame our younger wts. Rather with pure intention they entered into a system that quickly became ideologically askew due to the greed of the ruling Wts.

When those top factional wts travel around by private jet, chauffeur driven automobiles, keep houses & luxury suites, and deposit millions into their personal bank accounts, then idealistic young workers have hardly a chance of maintaining their vow of renunciation. Rather some get swept up into that, lest they face the consequences of getting pushed aside and receiving one punishment posting after another.

INGREDIENTS OF A SUCCESSFUL ORGANISATION:
RENUNCIATION AND DEDICATION

However to truly became a force in this world dedication is needed.

There are some organisations and religious groups that “succeed and thrive” on this earth because of their dedication. Often times their aims are awry, but they serve and help each other and eat together as one family and that is enough for them to gain success and spread their teachings from one land to the next.

This very faculty of sacrifice is missing in our Ananda Marga nowadays. That is why despite having the great teachings of dharma in our books, due to this blatant lack of renunciation and dedication to help and serve others, our AMPS is stuck, unfortunately, because of some bad apples.

So the spirit of madhukar and ajagar are deeply needed in our Ananda Marga. Prior to 1990 they were present. All the wts did everything and everything for the welfare of Ananda Marga and nothing for their own self. Now the opposite is happening as some are doing anything and everything for their own self and nothing for the welfare of our Ananda Marga.

One bad apple spoils the bunch. So even if a few Dadas are acting selfishly, hoarding money, indulging in luxuries, and going against the spirit of renunciation, then that taints and undermines our entire WT cadre.

So this is a shame. There is no dearth of dedicated workers and margiis in Ananda Marga. There are so many good people. But those dedicated workers just get pushed aside in one corner by the ruling elite.

By this entire manner, the spirit of renunciation and the sacrifice represented by our saffron flag and saffron coloured sannyasiis dress has been severely compromised.

“BE GREAT BY YOUR SADHANA, SERVICE AND SACRIFICE”

“It is action that makes a person great. Be great by your sádhaná, by your service, by your sacrifice.” (Ananda Vanii #20)

Only by recapturing the ideals of ajagar and madhukar can we once again become that great resurgent body that led to the tremendous growth of Ananda Marga. With those ideals absent from certain sannyasiis, our problems will continue. So let us once again rally around the spirit of our saffron flag and embrace Baba’s guidelines from senior acarya diary and build an AMPS organisation that reflects the cornerstones of sacrifice and renunciation.

“Everyone should render service to the world in accordance with their capacity and work for the welfare of the living beings to the best of their ability…You are travellers of an impregnable path. You have to
march ahead proudly with the flag of Marga upright. You have no time to stagger or to look behind.” (Subhasita Samgraha – 1)

CONDUCT RULES JUST BEING OVERLOOKED

These following WT conduct rules given by Baba go hand-in-hand with His divine teachings about madhukar and ajagar from the aparigraha section of Senior Acarya Diary.

So in various avenues, Baba is preaching this special gospel of renunciation, but tragically within our AM sannyasii culture these things are just being neglected and overlooked by some.

Best is if everyone judges for themselves if these below points are prevalent in our AM sannyasii order or not.

Thus when the ruling wts are hoarding wealth, laundering money, and looking down upon others, then how is our WT order going to become that shining example that will inspire confidence, service, and sacrifice to one and all.

BABA’S RELATED TEACHINGS

“The human mind has two contradictory inherent tendencies: one of acquisition, the other of sacrifice. The more one advances along the path of evolution, the more the second tendency, the spirit of sacrifice, becomes prominent.” (Ananda Marga Philosophy in a Nutshell – 5, The Faculty of Knowledge – 2)

REAL YOGI THINKS FOR THE UNIVERSE, NOT OWN SELF

“What is the Siddhi, i.e., attainment of Karma Sádhaná? – (Karma Brahmeti Karma Vahu Kurviita). To serve every mundane object thinking it to be the manifestation of Paramátmá is Karma, i.e., the Sádhaná of action. What is the achievement (Siddhi) of Karma Sádhaná? It is generally found that an average person spends more than twelve or fourteen hours in thinking about his or her own self. But the moment one starts thinking about the universe, one becomes a Karma Sádhaka. When one starts spending all one’s time in thinking for the universe, taking one self to be a bubble in the ocean of Karma, one gets Siddhi in Karma Sádhaná. A person is a part of the universe, and when one starts serving the universe, one is also automatically included among the served.” (Subháśita Saḿgraha Part 19, Salvation & Devotion)

“Many people look upon human beings as God Himself and throw themselves into the service of humanity abandoning their families and personal comforts. Defying all obstacles – the dense forests, the towering mountains, the stormy oceans – they travel throughout the world promoting the welfare of all.” (1 January 1964)

Namaskar,
in Him
Kamalkrsna

Note 1: WHAT IS TRUE RENUNCIATION

Here Baba guides us about the pathway of true renunciation.

“When the human mind becomes strong enough not to be affected by any colour, it is called vaera’gya [renunciation].” (10 November 1978, Calcutta)

The essence of the above teaching is that the mind must not be allowed to become tempted and engrossed by material wealth etc. Rather the mind should be kept in a state of balance, whereby one can look upon this world with empathy. Then when can truly serve others.

Unfortunately, when some of our wts with high posts are keen on luxury cars, black money, and other allurements that exist in this mundane world, and collect crores in their personal bank accounts. Then how can we say they truly imbibe the spirit renunciation.

According to Baba, renunciation means developing a high mind through sadhana where one feels that they have come on this earth with a mission to sacrifice for the service and welfare of others. Armed with this true spirit of renunciation our WT cadre will really become a great and benevolent force in this world.

The term ‘ajagar’ refers to that very large snake known as the python. And the sense is that a python never moves anywhere to procure its food. It stays put in one single place, always. And it only eats what comes across its path. It does not spend its entire life traveling all about in search of one’s food.

So in the realm of sannyasiihood, our AM monks are to adopt a similar approach while living on this earth. They are not to indulge in an ongoing quest for more and more wealth and money for their own self. Rather our AM sannyasiis are to adjust with whatever they get for their existential needs and dedicate themselves to infusing energy within others and serve all through our Ananda Marga social service projects etc. They should not waste their energy and time thinking about their own self and self alone etc. According to Baba, this is the real dharma of an Ananda Marga sannyasii.

At the same time, in their social service endeavours, workers can and should collect money for those projects. In that arena of life – for the service of others – they may seek out and gather donations and build up organisational bank accounts to sustain those projects. The account should be submitted to and overseen by a committee. Then there will be trust and commitment from all involved. In their personal life Wts must desist from doing keeping such accounts. Then they will be in accordance with the teachings of madhukarii and ajagarii vrttis.

So we should all accept His teachings with a cool mind and think twice when we see our wts frivolously running headlong after money. Because, by that way, they have lost their dharma – according to Baba’s teaching in Senior Acarya Diary about madhukarii vrtti and ajagarii vrtii.

Those Ananda Marga workers sincerely following madhukarii vrtti and ajagarii vrtti neither run after money nor property for their own luxury, only Parama Purusa. So a true wt will take proper ideation and just have the bare minimum that is needed to survive & execute their work of serving others. Side by side, one is not to harbour the desire of getting more personal wealth.

According to Baba, this is not only the ideal way, but the only way for a true AM sannyasii to live. Anyone going against this system is a fake sannyasii. That is Baba’s pointed stance & strict warning.

So that means our wts are not to stockpile funds in their personal bank accounts, nor are they to keep unaccounted money (i.e. black money), nor anything that is above and beyond what is needed for their basic subsistence.

Here we should not forget this is Baba’s teaching from Senior Acarya Diary and this is not some dogmatic belief from pre-historic Hinduism nor the fantasy of some jinanii, nor some impractical expectation by some day-dreamer which is too lofty to be attained.

Rather the highly practical and ideal teachings of madhukarii vrtti and ajagarii vrtti come from our Guru, the Taraka Brahma Lord Shrii Shrii Ananamurtiji who has graciously given this in Senior Acarya Diary. And indeed those wts adhering to this dharmic code of ajagarii vrtti are truly great. They are the real seers, sadvipras, and well-wishers of humanity. Their minds are crystal-clear and pointed towards Baba’s teachings, and not drifting towards worldly allurements etc.

(Note: This is the sixth letter in this series, links to the prior 5 letters are appended below. – Eds)

Namaskar,
The other day the report (link below) came how one Purodha Didi Ananda Dyotona was contravening Baba’s given conduct rules by keeping a young man as her ongoing companion. Didiji even brings this man into the inner chambers of the Didi’s jagrtis etc where he stays and lives. This is a clear contravention of Baba’s orders.

But that is not the only issue happening with our various purodhas. This below case is another critical issue. Essentially, one Didi, who became a Purodha before all the division occurred, has since joined H group, then left H group, and created her own faction. Yet her conduct is quite objectionable as she disregards fundamental rules of WT life. She blatantly disobeys avadhutika conduct rules.

Here is a glimpse of her behaviour. As you may know, the name of this WT is Didi Ananda Giitaji. And this is the key rule she goes against:

“Ananda Giita tells her supporters to repeat again and again that her laokik father has renounced all his property and given it all to AMPS. It seems Ananda Giita Didi carries out this plan merely so she can remain with her laokik father. She wrongly justifies that if he has donated everything then she can keep him on her master unit etc.

But the facts themselves do not stand in her favour. Firstly, her laokik father clearly did not donate all his wealth and property; it is just deceptive to say that he did. Second, regardless of whether he donated or not, there is no compromising any WT rule, including the rule that states that that workers must not keep relations with their laokik family / father etc.” (12/17/12)

Yes, as we know well, respected Didi Ananda Giita’s laokik father did not donate all his property and wealth to Ananda Marga. Since long Didi has been making this claim in order to justify why he always lives along with her or other didis. But this is just her bogus justification.

When Baba has given the mandate that no wt should be in contact with their worldly family, then that is for our welfare. His mandates must be followed. Certainly family margiis must care for their aged parents – that is their bounden duty as per Baba’s direction in Caryacarya. So family persons must give the proper care and support to their laokik parents. However, Baba has given a vastly different direction to all wholetimers of Ananda Marga

“No relation should exist with worldly family.” (1)

ANALOGY:

CANNOT REMAIN IN AVADHUTA / AVADHUTIKA DRESS

“Just as an avadhuta cannot marry a female and remain in WT dress, and just as an avadhutika cannot marry a male and remain in WT dress, similarly no wholetimer can maintain relations with their loakik father / family and remain in WT dress. The overall point being that there is no compromise ever with Wt conduct rules.” ( 12/17/12)

But instead of adhering to Guru’s direction and following Wt conduct rules, Ananda Giita and her followers have a whole long list of ready-made excuses and justifications for why Didi Ananda Giita gives so much attention and economic support to her own laokik father.

Some give the argument that respected Ananda Giita Didi’s elderly father was shifted from Kolkata to Umariya master unit in 2010 for proper medical care and attention. But, in fact Umariya MU is not a proper place for treatment for Dadaji if he is really very sick and requires intensive medical care. A better place would be a super speciality hospital like Fortish or Apollo, or some other institution, and we all should contribute and campaign for him if he is really in need.

THE HIDDEN STORY

The hidden story is really something else.

The whole reason why Didi Ananda Giita’s laokik father (Shrii KC Bhalla) was transferred to Umariya was due to Ananda Giita Didi’s own attachment for her worldly father. She knows that she is contravening Baba’s stated conduct rule.

But Didiji goes against Guru’s order because of her own self-interest and attachment. There is no dharmic or noble reason. Just it is nepotism: I.e. Those at the helm grant special favours to their worldly parents and relatives. As a yogic nun, she is committing sin by going against Baba’s dharmic code.

“These are all codes of discipline as prescribed by Bhágavata Dharma. You must follow these codes. There cannot be any concession in this respect, rather concession is dangerous.” (2)

Indeed, because Didi Ananda Giita has contravened Baba’s given conduct rules by attending to her laokik father and misappropriated organizational resources, so many junior didis have followed her negative example. By this way, so much organizational monies intended for social service projects have been rerouted to the laokik homes of various wts. And the root cause behind it all is Didi Ananda Giita. Her poor example opened the floodgates for other workers to follow suit. And Didi has no moral force to intervene, because she herself is guilty of the same sinful dealing.

Here again is Baba’s warning.

“These are all codes of discipline as prescribed by Bhágavata Dharma. You must follow these codes. There cannot be any concession in this respect, rather concession is dangerous.” (3)

What follows is more of the unfortunate history of respected Ananda Giita’s dealing.

After the death of her laokik mother, Didi Ananda Giita became very emotional and sentimentally linked with her laokik father, KC Bhalla ji. That is why Didiji shifts her father from place to place along with her, wherever her headquarters may be.

Nowadays, Ananda Giita Didi spends most of her days in Umariya – for months and months. Since she doesn’t go to Kolkata much anymore, so how she can leave her worldly father there in Kolkata. So to keep her laokik father right in under her eyes, she shifted him to the Umariya master unit. That was the sole motivating factor in bringing him there in 2010.

So her entire modus-operendi and mind-set run directly contrary to Sadguru’s mandate.

BHALA DID NOT GIVE UP EVERYTHING

“There are a few who (mistakenly) believe that since Ananda Gita didi’s laokik father K.C. Bhalla gave up all his moveable and immoveable property and donated it to Ananda Marga when his daughter became wt, therefore we should support this family regardless of their actions. Simply, because family has donated everything to Ananda Marga.

But this is all a hoax. Again and again, Didi Ananda Giita and her supporters repeat that K.C. Bhalla has donated everything to Ananda Marga. But this is just not true.

K.C. Bhalla to this day receives a big pension from the Indian government – thousands of rupees per month. He is financially independent, plus they still have property in the name of their laokik family.

So it is just a rumour by Ananda Giita Didi and her cohorts that her loakik father / family donated everything.” (12/15/12)

“Here are more details about his current financial status. Because no one should fall prey to the rumour enacted by Ananda Giita & Co that the only reason her laokik father (Bhalla) is under her care is because he has valiantly renounced all his wealth and signed it over to Ananda Marga. This is just not true.

EXAMPLE OF FALSEHOOD

Let’s take a simple evaluation of the matter:

(A) MONEY: As a freedom fighter in the Indian Independence movement, Ananda Giita’s laokik father Bhallaji has been receiving a pension of Rs 6000 every month from the Indian government. Still he receives this money on a monthly basis. I do not denounce Didiji’s laokik father for accepting his pension. He is legally and morally entitled to it. The smell of this is bad because respected Ananda Giita Didi and others in her camp claim that her laokik father has given everything to AMPS. Didi Ananda Giita justifies, “That is why I (Ananda Giita) am sheltering my laokik father.” To set the record straight, Didiji’s father has not donated all his economic wealth to AMPS. Rather he has a steady income, plenty of money, and perhaps much more in the bank. So Giita Didid need not live with him. Best will be if Didiji gives up her bogus claims about this – it is not befitting her stature to make up such cock and bull stories.

DECEPTIVE PROPAGANDA

(B) PROPERTY: In essence, Didi Ananad Giita’s laokik father owned four properties. Three parcels or plots in Umariya totaling 10 acres, and a 2-story house in Raipur. Still, to this very day, the 2-story Raipur house is in Bhalla’s name. That itself is further proof that Ananda Giita Didi’s laokik father did not donate all his moveable and immoveable property to Ananda Marga. They continue to claim that one day he will donate the Raipur property, but at the age of 90, he still owns that house in Raipur.

With regards to the Umariya land parcels, here again there is no proof that Didiji’s laokik father signed those properties to AMPS. To prove this, Didiji has to present the land deeds and other official papers. But this she has not done. No one has seen such papers in any Ananda Marga office.

Even then, Ananda Giita tells her supporters to repeat again and again that her laokik father has renounced all his property and given it all to AMPS. It seems Ananda Giita Didi carries out this plan merely so she can remain with her father. She wrongly justifies that if he has donated everything then she can keep him on her master unit etc.

But the facts themselves do not stand in her favour. Firstly, her laokik father clearly did not donate all his wealth and property; it is just deceptive to say that he did. Second, regardless of whether he donated or not, there is no compromising any WT rule, including the rule that states that workers must not keep relations with their laokik family / father etc.” (12/17/12)

“No relationship should exist with worldly family.” (5)

DIDI ANANDA GIITA’S ROLE IN ALL THIS

The two-story house in Raipur and the land for the Umariya master unit is not registered in the name of Ananda Marga. So no mutation / registration is in the name of Ananda Marga. Actually, Ananda Giita didi is reluctant to have it registered in the name of the organisation. In paper i.e legally, still it is the property of K.C. Bhalla and successor of this property is Promila Bhalla (i.e. Didi Annda Giita herself).

Both Bhallas are very old and in case of their sudden death, this land could never be registered in the name of Ananda Marga. It would be lost entirely. In that case, the hard-earned money of margiis and the great efforts of WWD didis would be wasted.

Many invested in these properties so if it leaves the hand of the organisation, due to negligence of Didi Ananda Giita, it would be a truly inexcusable. Didi Ananda Giita is the one to be held accountable.

The question is why has this land not been registered to date. Does Ananda Giita didi want to keep this land for herself in case of any eventuality – either she leaves or gets thrown out from the organisation. Is she doing all the construction and development work on her property for her own sake.

WARNING: DONATED PROPERTY IS LOST

Everyone should be aware that many properties which were not registered in the name of Ananda Marga were taken back after the death of the original donor. I myself know of at least ten such properties. Older, more senior margiis than I must know dozens of such incidents throughout Delhi sector. I am giving one example among them.

A CASE STUDY OF LOST PROPERTY

The sister of Shrii Vishvanath ji donated acres of land for a master unit in Village-Kanhauli, Block-Mushahari, District-Mujafarpur to Vanditanand ji for Ananad Marga. In stamp paper of 500 only, yadast paper was made and no registration was done. Even though some early construction and activity were done after the death of the donor, this land was recaptured by her relatives. Since there was no any paper or proper documentation, nothing could be done. A big piece of land was lost – a precious organisational property.

THE SITUATION IS TENUOUS:

ASK HER FOR A COPY OF THE PAPER

In the current case of Ananda Giita’a laokik father, Bhalla dada has merely donated mentally or verbally, but not legally. Still it is in his name, and it has been like that for years. The main question then is, what is intention of Pramilla Bhalla (i.e. Ananda Giita didi). Why is she delaying the matter. Those concerned margiis with a long and strong association with her can ask about her real intention.

If Ananda Giita Didi has still not registered it yet, those close to her should suggest her to do so. If she has registered it, please ask her for a copy of the paper so that we can prove others wrong and say that Didi Ananda Giita is a righteous didi.

If she has not registered till now then you can ask her why this hue and cry without any base. You can tell her this Muhabara: Chori to chori upper se sinajori. The basic idea is, “Stealing is one thing, but thievery and violent behaviour is another matter.”

The point being that Didi Ananda Giita is not just breaking a conduct rule given by Sadguru; in addition, she wants everyone to respect and honour her, and she wants everyone to feel that she is a staunch moralist. That is why Didi argues and justifies and advocates for herself, day and night. Such is her extreme approach. There is no end to what she can do in this regard.

NOT LIKE CORPORATE EXECUTIVES

Remember that our respected wholetimers of Ananda Marga have dedicated themselves to a high ideal – in service to Gurudev and suffering humanity. Their lives are for promoting Baba’s teachings and the welfare of others. Our workers cannot be thought of as selfish corporate executives or business employees who reap profits, rewards, and benefits and use those funds for their selfish ends. Our Wts have no such entitlements. They are sannyasis, not CEO’s. They have come here to serve – not for swindling and hoarding bonuses. In materialistic enterprises, people do like that. That is the common way. But this is against the ethic and spirit of being Wt. If any worker thinks they are entitled in this way that is quite alarming.

IMPORTANCE OF PROPER LEADERSHIP

“We must not ever forget that leadership is given utmost importance in Ananda Marga. And leadership means leading by example. So if our senior-most Didi is negligent on this matter of relations with her worldly family, then that is highly problematic. Setting a bad example creates a domino effect.

Baba Himself has issued this warning:

“Bear in mind that people may be harmed or misled by even a small weakness or defect in the conduct of an ácárya… an ácárya or ácáryá should always instruct by his or her exemplary actions and words.” (4)

Thus, there is no scope to overlook or pardon what Didi Ananda Giita Didi has done and continues to do. Her ongoing interactions and preferential treatment towards her laokik father cannot be supported. Such dealing is highly condemnable.” (12/15/12)

SLOGANS DO NOT MATCH THE ACTIONS

Supporters of Didi Ananda Giita may shout that she is not having relation with her laokik family. But this whole long story tells another truth.

Congress is shouting that it is doing FDI and price rise for Aam Admi but no Aam Admi is convinced.

Similarly, the slogans of the supporter of Ananda Giita didi are not matching her activity and dealing. They are chanting one thing and she is doing another. It is a mismatch.

HEARTFELT SUPPORT

All that has been expressed in this letter has been done with respected Didi Ananda Giita’s best interest in mind. Baba guides us that we must offer help in this regard.

“All Ananda Margis, when they see other Margis acting against the principles of Yama and Niyama, must make them shun this habit either by sweet or harsh words or by dealing even more strictly. Thus they will have to make the society strong. Henceforth I direct every Ananda Margi to keep strict vigilance on other Ananda Margiis to make them practise the principles of Yama and Niyama.” (6)

“From the social or human viewpoint, everybody has the right to correct the behaviour of everyone else. This is the birthright of every human being. No scholar can dispute the right of people to correct the shortcomings of those with whom they come in contact. The recognition of this right is indispensable for the health of society.” (7)

So with the best of intentions and good feeling for respected avadhutika Didi, I raise this matter. Didi Ananda Giita has contributed so much in her life and I wish to see her abide by the codes of bhagavad dharma in her twilight years as well. I want her full success on this earth. And Baba has given the mandate for how to ensure this: Point out respected seniors because the wrongs those top Wts do will be emulated by others. That will save all involved, including Didi Ananda Giita. For this reason, I kindly bring this matter to the fore.

As respected Didi Ananda Giita mends her ways, she will not incur papa and pratyavaya. I want her welfare – that is all. Just as with present day political leaders, those acaryas in question should rectify their conduct or step down from the post. Those are the two options.

In my heart of hearts, I feel certain respected Didi Ananda Giita Acarya will do the needful.

Namaskar,
in Him,
Parabhakti

(Note: My gratitude to earlier writers on this topic who granted permission for their material to be aggregated here for a summary letter.)